Recommended Solder/Flux for Steam pipe/Boiler?

Recommended Solder/Flux for Steam pipe/Boiler?
Posted by ShadetreeMotorcycle on 06 Feb, 2021 07:26
I will soon be trying my hand at Solder steam pipes with PM Reasearch fittings...I know there are low temp solder all the way up to silver solder (high temp)
Can anyone recommend a type or brand along with the appropriate flux that seems to work really well for models in the Wileso/Jensen size range?
Also I hope to try my hand at a self made boiler for the same size models, do I need to go all the way up to silver solder on the boiler? I will be using BIX burners to fire my models and I don't like to fire them for max speed/max steam pressure...but may fire occasionally for moderate pressure to sometimes run an accessory that takes more power..any tips would be appreciated!

#1 Reply
Posted by St Paul Steam on 06 Feb, 2021 21:05
This is what I use most of the time , I like the liquid flux as I can use it to clean the solder area afterwords. For the most part a high temp grade soft solder will work & I always build my boilers assuming the most brutal conditions IE...accidentally running it dry, as long as you have some water in your boiler it should hold up.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/2-EACH-Harris-Stay-Brite-Silver-Bearing-Solder-Stay-Clean-Flux-Kit-SBSKPOP/263983897758

#2 Reply
Posted by ShadetreeMotorcycle on 07 Feb, 2021 08:20
Ordered!!!
That is just what I hope for, a lower temp grade that would be adequate, the mostly tin formula should melt and flow well, the 4% Silver gives some strength.
I also wanted flux recommended for product and your link provides all plus free shipping!
Thanks St paul Steam...you seem much Nicer to newbie 1000 questions than some...

#3 Reply
Posted by St Paul Steam on 07 Feb, 2021 10:00
Ben , I have also bought this 16oz bottle of liquid flux to refill those little dropper bottles ( the snout simply pops off to refill) , I use more flux than solder & tend to run out of it before I do solder. A 16 oz will last a very long time.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/40003-SCLF16-Harris-Stay-Clean-Soldering-Tinning-Liquid-Flux-16-Ounce/381441914891?hash=item58cfb5b80b:g:MHQAAOSw3PtdQfmw

#4 Reply
Posted by ShadetreeMotorcycle on 07 Feb, 2021 13:30
Ordered that to...if the liquid flux is helpful for cleaning discolored joint after solder...I'll want lots of it.

#5 Reply
Posted by St Paul Steam on 07 Feb, 2021 16:01
Quote from: ShadetreeMotorcycle on 07 Feb, 2021 13:30
Ordered that to...if the liquid flux is helpful for cleaning discolored joint after solder...I'll want lots of it.
that's exactly what its good for, plus I use it to flush out the impurities that sometimes rise out of a solder in progress.

#6 Reply
Posted by ShadetreeMotorcycle on 07 Feb, 2021 16:26
UpDate:
I was searching PM Research website...just looking at all the good "stuff" and stumbled on a solder kit!
It is the Exact same formula. 96% Tin and 4% Silver plus liquid flux. In the description they state it is the solder they Recommend to there boiler kit and fitting customers...So it seems we got the "Right Stuff" thanks!!
PS: also states melt temp of 430 deg